Originally Posted by bumpinalta (Post 11414570)

I used to ride a fair amount on a 30 year old road bike. Got back into biking this summer after a 6 year hiatus.
I was definitely new to all the new technology like indexed shifting for example.:lol:

At any rate I had the same dilemma as you when deciding on a new bike. LBS and lesser bike or BikesDirect and hope for the best.

Iwent to a few LBS and learned all I could from them and the internet.

I decided on BD for the simple reason of cost. I got a $900 bike equipped with Ultegra, Carbon Fork, and basically everything else I could imagine possible at that price.

I can say I am VERY happy with my choice. I did all my own setup and have made a few adjustments since. I have always been a DIY kinda guy.
You can always pay a LBS to setup your BD bike for $50 or so if your not comfortable with the idea.

If you know the size frame you need, you'll be fine with the BD bike.

I'm putting 150-200 miles a week on my bike, (mostly commuting), haven't even had it a month yet.

At the price you are looking at why get Sora that you can get from a department store bike when you can have Ultegra**********

Originally Posted by Gege-Bubu (Post 11408977)

I was buying my first bike a few months ago, so my experience is fresh. Kinda from one noob to another one.

I would highly recommend LBS for the first bike. First, you learn what bike size you do need. Then, you can try as many bikes as you want and feel them. Buy the one you fell in love. ))) (and can afford)))))

The LBS will help you to fit the bike which is important too. Also, some of LBS will do some adjustments, services for free, and you need them.

The components are irrelevant until you know how much you actually will ride. From what you told, some commutes plus some longer rides, it is going to be 100-150 miles a week, correct? For this mileage, any components are fine. I wouldn't buy anything with thumb shifters, they are just not comfortable for any kind of ride. But the Sora on other components is fine.

I don't think components upgrade is very wise, because it can easily reach the half of the initial bike cost or more. Replace them only if they brake. Save it better for the next bike.

Don't forget to leave room in your budget for pedals, clothes, bottles, computer etc. It all adds up quickly.

Originally Posted by joe_5700 (Post 11421699)

How? I have 2 bikes with 105 shifters and one with 2200 thumb shifters. I have yet to be uncomfortable due to my 2200 shifters.....

Originally Posted by Gege-Bubu (Post 11422773)

My personal experience says the thumb shifters are less comfortable. Just MHO.

Originally Posted by nhluhr (Post 11422815)

He was asking, in what way are they less comfortable. Are you feeling like you have to keep your hands always in the same spot because of them? Or is the button causing you actual discomfort while using it? I can't imagine that is the case.